2,767 UNN Students Gain Skills, Grants in Landmark YAW Empowerment Initiative
2,767 UNN Students Gain Skills, Grants in Landmark YAW Empowerment Initiative
UmarFarouk123 
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has empowered 2,767 final-year students under the Young African Works (YAW) project, equipping them with employability skills, financial support, and entrepreneurial funding.
The initiative implemented with Jobberman Nigeria, the Rural Engagement and Development Foundation (REDFoundation), and Roar Nigeria Hub, trained and certified students across 10 faculties in soft and career skills to enhance job readiness.
As part of its welfare component, the programme provided financial support totalling ₦739,400, including full and partial tuition assistance to indigent and visually impaired students, as well as a zero-interest loan. In addition, 140 students received power banks to support their studies.
To promote entrepreneurship, one student beneficiary received a ₦500,000 zero-interest business fund, while several others benefitted from mentorship in career development and social entrepreneurship, alongside training in savings and microfinance.
The project strengthened inclusive support for vulnerable students and reinforced UNN’s commitment to innovation, human capital development, and graduate employability.
The students commended the University Management under the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya for providing the enabling environment that ensured the programme’s success, with partners expressing readiness to expand its impact in future phases.
